How the Homeopathic Medicine Convallaria Works

Identification

Convallaria majalis is commonly known as lily of the valley. It's popular in flower gardens, along fences and around houses. The plant is hardy, growing well in shady locations, with heavily scented and small bell-shaped flowers. Convallaria, particularly the root, has long been known as a folk remedy useful for various purposes, but homepathic specialists generally don't recommend it because the plant is very poisonous. It's included in some commercial homeopathic remedies, typically in concentrations of about 1 percent with other active ingredients.

Cardiovascular Effects

Convallaria has historically been used mainly for improving problems with the cardiovascular system. The plant contains glycosides, common in allopathic medication for improving congestive heart failure and arrhythmia, as they increase the force of cardiac contraction. A small dosage stimulates the heart; more moderate amounts sedate a heart that beats too rapidly or has palpitations. Convallaria has similar effects as the drug Digitalis, derived from the plant Digitalis purpurea (commonly known as foxglove). This medication also strengthens heart muscle contractions and slows the heart rate. Naturopathic doctor Eric Yarnell-- publishing in Alternative and Complementary Therapies in 1999 and 2003--stated that Convallaria may have valid clinical use for congestive heart failure and can be useful in treating serious arrhythmia, but the plant has no known safe dosage.

Diuretic Effects

Because it functions as a diuretic, Convallaria is useful in treating edema, or swelling due to an unusual accumulation of fluid beneath the skin or in a body cavity. It has been used to relieve pulmonary congestion and other chronic lung problems including emphysema.

Antispasmodic Function

Additionally, Convallaria is an antispasmodic, useful for reducing the occurrence of seizures in epilepsy and other convulsive disorders. It also can be beneficial for treating disorders such as cerebral palsy, because it relaxes tight muscles and reduces muscle spasms.

Resources

• Further information on Convallaria as a homeopathic medicine